Mr. Snowden to Mr. Foster.
Madrid, January 16, 1893. (Received January 30.)
Sir: I have the honor to inform you that in an interview with the Marquis of Vega de Armijo, I pressed upon him the importance of giving to Señor Muruaga, the new minister to Washington, before his departure, instructions and authority to arrange with you a convention for the adjustment of the Mora and such other claims as Spanish subjects may have against our Government. In reply he said he would endeavor to meet my wishes. I pointed out the advantages likely to follow prompt action, as the present disposition of our Government to arrange such a convention might be changed after the 4th of March next.
[Page 416]I also took occasion to indicate as an important element in a prompt and equitable settlement, your personal familiarity with the claims to be considered.
As intimated in my No. 58, I sought an interview with Señor Muruaga, with the purpose of impressing upon him the personal and general advantages that would result from his taking with him to Washington full powers as above indicated.
I am satisfied he will do what he can to second my efforts in meeting the wishes of the Department in this matter.
I have, etc.,